Booze Traveler Season 2 Episode 17 Drinking Games

In Booze Traveler season 2 episode 17, entitled "Drinking Games", host Jack Maxwell travels to the beautiful country of Croatia to explore the roots of some of their most unique games and rituals involving alcohol.

The episode begins with Jack in Dubrovnik, the pearl of the Adriatic, where he learns about a drinking game called "Zvrk". The game involves rolling a stick and calling out the number on it, depending on which side the stick ends up on. If you get it wrong, you take a shot of Rakija, a fruit brandy that's popular in Croatia. Jack learns the game from a group of locals who regularly play it at their favorite bar and are happy to share its rules and secrets with him.

Next, Jack travels to Rovinj, a picturesque Croatian town on the Istrian peninsula, where he explores the world of Istrian truffles with a local truffle hunter. They head out to the forest with a trained dog and search for the prized delicacy before enjoying a traditional meal with truffles and Istrian Malvazija wine.

In the nearby town of Motovun, Jack meets a group of young Croatians who are passionate about preserving their cultural heritage through games and music. He joins them in a game of "Punica", another traditional drinking game that involves throwing stones at a wooden board and depending on where they land, you either drink or give a drink to someone else. The group also plays traditional instruments and sings songs from their region, making for a memorable and enjoyable experience for Jack.

Next, Jack heads to the historic city of Zadar where he meets a group of men who are part of the "Grad Zadar" society, which preserves and promotes local traditions and customs. They introduce him to a game called "Pijanka", which involves drinking shots of Rakija and rolling dice to determine who drinks and how much. The men explain the importance of these games in building relationships and fostering a sense of community, especially in rural parts of Croatia.

Finally, Jack ends his journey in the quaint village of Smiljan, where he pays tribute to one of Croatia's most famous inventors, Nikola Tesla. He visits the Tesla Memorial Center and learns about the life and work of the brilliant scientist who changed the world with his inventions. Jack also discovers a unique cocktail that pays tribute to Tesla's legacy, made with Rakija, honey, lemon, and a dash of gold glitter.

Throughout the episode, Jack is amazed by the warmth and hospitality of the Croatian people, who welcome him with open arms and share their customs and traditions with enthusiasm. He discovers that drinking games are not just about getting drunk, but rather a way of socializing and connecting with others.

Overall, Booze Traveler season 2 episode 17 is a fascinating journey through the customs and culture of Croatia, showcasing the country's beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and of course, its passion for alcohol and games.